I’ve refined this cream of celery soup recipe With Parsley Oil Swirl to be consistently comforting and utterly simple. Imagine the velvety texture coating your spoon, followed by the bright burst of its fresh parsley oil swirl. Perfect for busy parents or anyone looking for a budget-friendly meal, this delicious soup transforms humble ingredients into a bowl of pure delight. It’s my go-to when I need a nourishing, family-friendly meal on a busy weeknight.

Ingredients and Smart Substitutions
Gathering fresh, quality ingredients is key for the best flavor in your homemade soup. This list ensures a rich base and a vibrant finish, elevating this easy cream of celery soup recipe into something truly special.
For the Cream of Celery Soup:
- Fresh celery stalks: 4 cups (about 1 bunch or 300g), chopped, including some leaves for deeper flavor – the heart of our soup’s flavor.
- Onion: 1 medium (about 150g), chopped – aromatic base.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced (or 1 tsp pre-minced) – adds a pungent depth.
- Butter or olive oil: 2 tablespoons (30ml) – for sautéing aromatics. (I’ve made this with both butter and olive oil; butter adds richness, oil keeps it dairy-free if needed.)
- Vegetable or chicken broth: 4 cups (960ml), low-sodium – liquid base, for deep flavor and body. (Ensure it’s certified GF for a gluten-free soup.)
- Potatoes or celeriac: 1 medium (about 200g), peeled and diced – for creamy texture and body without heavy cream. (For an easy low-carb recipe, swap for 2 cups cauliflower florets.)
- Milk or cream: ½ cup (120ml), whole milk or heavy cream (or plant-based milk like unsweetened almond milk) – for richness and velvety smoothness.
- Salt and black pepper: To taste – essential seasoning.
For the Parsley Oil Swirl:
- Fresh flat-leaf parsley: ½ cup (about 15g), packed – bright, herbaceous notes. (Look for vibrant green bunches.)
- Olive oil: ¼ cup (60ml), extra virgin – to emulsify and carry flavor.
- Garlic clove: 1 small, minced (optional) – for extra punch.
- Pinch of salt: ¼ teaspoon – to enhance flavor.
For premium variations, consider organic celery, pasture-raised butter, or homemade broth for a richer taste. For a dairy-free cream of celery soup recipe, use plant-based milk (almond, oat) and olive oil. For a gluten-free soup, ensure broth is certified GF. For a heartier best protein meals option, consider adding shredded chicken or lentils. For an easy low-carb recipe, swap potatoes for cauliflower florets or celeriac. Notes on sourcing: Look for fresh, crisp celery at your local farmers market or grocery store. You can often find pre-chopped mirepoix mixes to save time, supporting convenience for busy families looking for simple and delicious cream of celery soup recipes.
Step-by-Step Cooking Method
Crafting this flavorful cream of celery soup recipe With Parsley Oil Swirl is straightforward with these clear steps. Each action builds towards a deeply satisfying meal.
- Prep Your Veggies (10 min): Wash and chop celery, onion, garlic, and potatoes or celeriac into roughly 1-inch pieces. The goal is uniform size for even cooking. For the parsley oil, finely chop parsley and garlic, then combine with ¼ cup olive oil and ¼ teaspoon salt in a small bowl or food processor until smooth, creating a vibrant green swirl.
- Sauté Aromatics (8-10 min): In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or a 10-inch Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons butter or heat oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add chopped onion and celery, cooking until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes; you’ll smell their sweetness. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Simmer to Perfection (20-25 min): Stir in diced potatoes or celeriac and pour in 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently until all vegetables are very tender when pierced with a fork (20-25 minutes). If the liquid level seems low during simmering, add ¼ cup more broth to prevent scorching and ensure a creamy consistency.
- Blend Until Smooth (5 min): Carefully transfer the soup mixture to a sturdy blender (working in batches, filling only halfway) or use an immersion blender directly in the pot. Blend until completely smooth and creamy, with no visible vegetable chunks remaining. Return the pureed soup to the pot.
- Finish and Season (3-5 min): Stir in ½ cup milk or cream, heating gently until warmed through. Do not boil, as this can curdle the milk. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting until the flavors truly sing. For a brighter cream of celery soup recipe, I sometimes add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at this stage to elevate the whole dish.
- Swirl and Serve: Ladle hot soup into individual bowls. Drizzle generously with the fresh parsley oil swirl just before serving for an elegant finish and a burst of herbaceous flavor. This complete cream of celery soup recipe With Parsley Oil Swirl is ready for your table. For quick meals, remember you can use frozen chopped celery, saving prep time without sacrificing quality.
Serving Ideas and Storage Solutions
This cream of celery soup recipe With Parsley Oil Swirl offers versatility for any meal. It transitions from a quick healthy dinner to an elegant starter with ease.
Serving Situations
- Perfect as a quick healthy dinner during busy weeknights.
- A comforting lunch option or an elegant appetizer for special gatherings.
- A fantastic starter for holiday meals, setting a refined tone.
Pairing Suggestions
- Serve with crusty bread for soaking up every delicious drop.
- Complements a fresh green salad or a classic grilled cheese sandwich.
- A light white wine or sparkling water with lemon enhances the flavors beautifully.
Storage Guidance
Proper storage ensures you can enjoy this delicious soup later, making it ideal for meal prep.
Fridge Life
Store leftover celery soup in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer Instructions
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving headspace. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. The parsley oil can be stored separately in the fridge for up to a week.
Nutrition and Wellness Benefits of Cream of Celery Soup
This creamy celery soup can support your lifestyle goals by providing a fulfilling, nutrient-dense meal.
- Hydration & Fiber: Celery is high in water and fiber, promoting digestion and satiety, which is great for meal prep for weight loss and overall healthy eating.
- Vitamins & Minerals: It’s rich in Vitamin K, Vitamin C, potassium, and folate from the fresh organic ingredients used.
- Comforting & Satisfying: A warm bowl of this soup is inherently comforting, helping to reduce stress and promote well-being. It’s a lighter alternative to heavier dishes.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable to be an easy low-carb recipe or to boost protein content, making it a versatile option for various dietary needs and family-friendly meals.
Why This Recipe Works in Real Life
This versatile cream of celery soup recipe With Parsley Oil Swirl delivers on convenience and taste for busy households.
- Saves Time: Quick prep and cook time make this a perfect weeknight meal, fitting into even the busiest schedules. This makes for easy dinner ideas.
- Affordable Meals: Made with common, inexpensive ingredients, it’s a budget-friendly choice for families seeking healthy eating options.
- Fits Diet Goals: Highly customizable for different dietary needs, from gluten-free to low-carb or high-protein, supporting balanced meals without sacrificing flavor.
- Picky Eater Friendly: Its smooth, creamy texture and mild flavor make this celery soup appealing even to children or those wary of vegetables.

Extra Tips & Customizations
Cooking Adjustments
For a thinner soup, simply add more broth until your desired consistency is reached. For a richer soup, increase the cream amount slightly or add a dollop of crème fraîche before serving.
Flavor Twists
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or dried thyme during simmering for a warmer, earthy flavor profile.
- Swirl in a spoonful of vibrant pesto instead of parsley oil for a different herby kick. I’ve found a small dollop of plain Greek yogurt also adds a lovely tang and extra creaminess without adding more dairy fat.
- Top with crunchy croutons, toasted nuts, or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for extra texture.
Allergy-Safe Substitutions
For dairy allergies, use nut-free milk alternatives like oat milk. Always ensure your vegetable broth is certified gluten-free for those with gluten sensitivities.
Kid-Friendly Tweaks
Keep the soup very smooth and offer fun toppings. Think Goldfish crackers or a drizzle of mild cheddar cheese sauce to encourage them to enjoy their vegetables.
Reader Questions Answered
Is this cream of celery soup recipe With Parsley Oil Swirl good for weekly meal prep?
Absolutely! This soup is excellent for weekly meal prep, whether for healthy eating or just convenience. Make a large batch, portion it out, and you’ll have healthy, satisfying lunches or quick dinners ready to go.
Can I make this cream of celery soup recipe With Parsley Oil Swirl dairy-free?
Yes, easily! To make this recipe dairy-free, simply swap the butter for olive oil and use a plant-based milk alternative. Unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or cashew cream work wonderfully, keeping the creamy texture.
How can I make my cream of celery soup recipe With Parsley Oil Swirl thicker or thinner?
To make the soup thicker, you can use less broth from the start or simmer it longer to reduce. For a thinner consistency, simply stir in more hot broth or water until it reaches your desired texture. I usually start with slightly less liquid than called for, then adjust at the end for perfect creaminess.
What can I serve with this cream of celery soup recipe With Parsley Oil Swirl?
This flavorful soup pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad for a light meal, or a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting dinner. Some crusty artisanal bread is also fantastic for dipping.
Can I use frozen celery in this cream of celery soup recipe With Parsley Oil Swirl?
While fresh celery provides the best flavor and texture, you can certainly use frozen chopped celery in this recipe if that’s what you have on hand. It will work just fine for the cooked soup base, especially if you’re looking for convenience.
How long does homemade cream of celery soup recipe With Parsley Oil Swirl last in the fridge?
Your homemade soup will stay fresh and delicious in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. It’s perfect for enjoying over several meals or for quick family dinners.
Conclusion
This easy cream of celery soup recipe With Parsley Oil Swirl delivers wholesome, satisfying comfort and is perfectly suited for healthy, quick family dinners. I’m confident you’ll enjoy having this reliable meal in your rotation. Save this recipe on Pinterest for countless delicious and easy dinner ideas!
Print
cream of celery soup recipe With Parsley Oil Swirl
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Diet: General
Description
This cream of celery soup recipe is a comforting and simple dish, featuring a velvety texture and a bright, fresh parsley oil swirl. It transforms humble ingredients into a nourishing, budget-friendly, and family-friendly meal perfect for a busy weeknight.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh celery stalks, chopped (about 1 bunch or 300g), including some leaves
- 1 medium onion, chopped (about 150g)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced, for soup
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil (30ml)
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, low-sodium (960ml)
- 1 medium potato or celeriac, peeled and diced (about 200g)
- 0.5 cup milk or cream (120ml), whole milk or heavy cream or plant-based milk
- Salt, to taste, for soup
- Black pepper, to taste
- 0.5 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, packed (about 15g)
- 0.25 cup extra virgin olive oil (60ml), for parsley oil
- 1 small garlic clove, minced, optional, for parsley oil
- 0.25 teaspoon salt, for parsley oil
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Wash and chop celery, onion, garlic, and potatoes or celeriac into roughly 1-inch pieces. Finely chop parsley and garlic (if using), then combine with 0.25 cup olive oil and 0.25 teaspoon salt in a small bowl or food processor until smooth for the parsley oil.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, melt butter or heat oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and celery; cook 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent. Add minced garlic; cook 1 minute until fragrant.
- Simmer Vegetables: Stir in diced potatoes or celeriac and pour in vegetable or chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 20-25 minutes until vegetables are very tender. (If liquid seems low, add 0.25 cup more broth).
- Blend Soup: Carefully transfer soup to a sturdy blender (working in batches) or use an immersion blender directly in the pot. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. Return pureed soup to the pot.
- Finish and Season: Stir in 0.5 cup milk or cream, heating gently until warmed through; do not boil. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste. (Optionally, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice).
- Serve with Parsley Oil: Ladle hot soup into individual bowls. Drizzle generously with the fresh parsley oil swirl just before serving.
Notes
To make dairy-free, use olive oil and plant-based milk. For gluten-free, use certified GF broth. For low-carb, swap potatoes for cauliflower florets or celeriac. You can add shredded chicken or lentils for a heartier meal. Frozen chopped celery can save prep time. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end can brighten flavors. For richer taste, consider organic celery, pasture-raised butter, or homemade broth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop, Blending
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups (360 ml)
- Calories: 200 calories
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg